Kidwell Honored as President Emeritus of the Christian Church Foundation

To recognize Rev. Gary W. Kidwell’s 26 years of impactful leadership to Christian Church Foundation, including 21 as president, the Board of Directors honored Kidwell with the title of President Emeritus.

The Foundation’s Board of Directors unanimously passed a resolution bestowing this honor in recognition of Kidwell’s deep commitment to the church and significant contributions to its mission. Kidwell received the resolution during the Foundation’s dinner at General Assembly in Memphis, TN.

During Kidwell’s tenure $174 million was distributed to ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) from permanent funds and other donor gifts entrusted to the Foundation. Additionally, Disciples donors gave $197 million in new gifts to be managed by the Foundation in support of the donors’ chosen ministries.

Ministry partners invested an additional $600 million in the Joint Investment Trust (JIT); trusting the Foundation to manage and grow each partner’s resources for their future ministry.

Under Kidwell’s leadership, the Foundation achieved the remarkable milestone of more than $1 billion in assets under management.

Beyond the numbers, Kidwell’s ministry has rooted in the heart and passion of a church pastor; grounded in care, compassion, and love for the church and her people. He has been a pastoral presence to donors and their families; a champion of theological education; a source of encouragement to new generations of church leaders; a steady guide through times of change and crisis; an advocate for stewardship; and a friend.

In inviting Kidwell to receive a copy of the resolution, Matt Rosine, Foundation president, noted that Kidwell would not want the focus to be on himself, but as a retiree, “we get the last word.”

In receiving the recognition, Kidwell said, “As I step away from this chapter, I do so with deep gratitude. Not for titles or recognition, but for the moments of grace woven through the years—the whispered prayers, the unexpected joys, the steadfast belief that generosity is an act of faith. And to all of you who have trusted us with your legacy gifts—thank you. Your generosity and faithful stewardship have built, sustained, and expanded the reach of the Gospel, ensuring that faith does not fade but flourishes.”

Kidwell joins Revs. James Reed and James Johnson who have also been recognized with the honor of President Emeritus from the Christian Church Foundation.

 

You may view this release as a pdf here.